Freetown, Sierra Leone – After spending over a year in Nigeria, former President Ernest Bai Koroma is actively pursuing a return to Sierra Leone, as revealed by his legal representative, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara.
In a recent interview on Radio Democracy 98.1FM’s “Good Morning Show,” Kamara emphasized that Koroma’s extended stay in Nigeria was not by choice.
“It is not the will of Former President Koroma to stay in Nigeria; he wants to come home,” Kamara stated.
He further mentioned ongoing discussions with ECOWAS and other stakeholders to facilitate Koroma’s return, highlighting the former president’s significance to the nation’s peace and security.
Koroma departed Sierra Leone in January 2024 under contentious circumstances. The High Court had granted him a three-month leave to seek medical treatment in Nigeria on January 19, 2024. This decision coincided with allegations linking him to a failed coup attempt against President Julius Maada Bio’s government—a claim that Koroma has consistently refuted.
Kamara, who previously served as Attorney General during Koroma’s tenure, conveyed the former president’s commitment to Sierra Leone’s development and peace-building initiatives.
“He sends his greetings to the people of Sierra Leone and remains committed to fostering lasting peace in the country,” Kamara affirmed.
The circumstances surrounding Koroma’s departure have led to widespread speculation about potential agreements facilitating his exit. While Kamara did not confirm any such arrangements, he expressed optimism for a resolution that would enable Koroma to return and address the allegations against him.
As dialogues with regional and international entities progress, Koroma’s prospective return is poised to play a pivotal role in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to uphold stability and navigate political challenges.
